The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point continues its Tuesday Tutorials programming commemorating National Heart Month through March with “When Do You Need Open Heart Surgery & What...

Medication

Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for this condition. An incision is made in the lower leg and the tendon is sewn back together. A
cast, splint, walking boot, or brace is worn for 6-8 weeks. One of the benefits of surgery is that it lowers the risk of re-rupturing the tendon. Surgery may also be a better option if you are athletic.

Non-Surgical Care

The other option is to allow your tendon to heal without surgery. In this case, you also need to wear a cast, splint, walking boot, or brace for 6-8 weeks. You also may have different exercises to do. If you are less active or have a chronic illness that prevents surgery, this option may be better for you.

Rehabilitation

During rehabilitation, you will:

Complete
range-of-motion exercises for the legs. Ankle motion will begin when healing allows.

Progress to strengthening and balance exercises as your condition improves

Use crutches or a walker to protect the healing tendon

Be advised of other exercises and activities that are safe for you

Most people can return to normal activity in 4-6 months.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting Achilles tendon rupture, take the following steps:

Do warm-up exercises before an activity and cool down exercises after an activity.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.